Certified Animation Professional (CAP) Practice Test 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Exam Study Guide.

The principle of animation that is crucial for creating believable movement is squash and stretch. This principle is foundational in giving animated characters and objects a sense of weight, volume, and flexibility. When an object moves, it doesn’t just translate from one position to another; it often deforms, compressing and expanding in response to force. For instance, when a ball bounces, it squashes upon impact with the ground, and then it stretches as it leaves the ground, creating a sense of realism in its movement.

Squash and stretch not only helps in making the motion more dynamic but also communicates the emotional state or energy of a character or object. By exaggerating these principles, animators can convey feelings such as joy, anger, or surprise in a way that resonates with the audience. This principle makes movements more relatable and engaging, enhancing the overall believability of the animation.